You're Broke But Desperate for a Flat? How to House Hack Your Way to Homeownership (Maybe)
Let's face it, forking over a small fortune for a flat deposit is enough to make anyone consider living in a cardboard box (cardboard prices are getting ridiculous too though). But fear not, millennial house-aspirants! There are ways, unconventional and possibly involving interpretive dance, to swing the homeowner's dream without a bottomless bank account.
Here's your guide to becoming a flat-owner on a shoestring budget (disclaimer: consult a financial advisor, this might involve duct tape and wishful thinking):
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.![]()
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.![]()
How To Buy A Flat Without Money |
1. The Art of the Flat-ttery:
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.![]()
-
Befriend a wealthy philanthropist with a penchant for rewarding strangers with property. Pro-tip: Wear a monocle and practice your most endearing orphan Oliver impression.
-
Subheading: Operation Grandma Guilt Trip (Use with caution and a sprinkle of cinnamon): Channel your inner Hallmark movie character and remind your grandparents of their unfulfilled dreams of opening a cat cafe. Suggest that said cafe could conveniently double as your new home (with rent, obviously).
2. Become a Master Negotiator (or Clown?):
Reminder: Save this article to read offline later.![]()
-
Develop the persuasive powers of a cult leader and convince the seller to barter for the flat. Maybe you can offer a lifetime supply of your grandma's famous banana bread (strictly allergy-tested, of course). Remember, negotiation is all about compromise – are you willing to give up your firstborn (not recommended) for that dishwasher?
-
Subheading: Unleash Your Inner MacGyver: Think outside the box (or should we say outside the realtor's office?). Perhaps you can convince the seller to take payment in the form of your meticulously crafted collection of bottle caps (serious collectors only).
3. Embrace the Sharing Economy (and Possibly Some Roommates):
-
House-hacking Hero: Rent out a room (or two, or three) to become a human Airbnb. This strategy can not only cover your mortgage but also provide you with a never-ending stream of interesting house guests (think jugglers, unicyclists, or that guy who can recite the entire alphabet backwards).
-
Subheading: The Joy of Cohabitation: Channel your inner Monica Geller and turn your flat into a roommate utopia. Just be prepared for occasional arguments over toilet paper brands and questionable musical taste.
Remember: Owning a flat takes commitment (and possibly a therapist). This guide offers unconventional (and frankly, slightly ridiculous) approaches. But hey, if all else fails, there's always the cardboard box option (complete with a "No Soliciting" sign, because who needs that kind of negativity?).
Final note: While this article is meant to be humorous, it's important to acknowledge that buying a flat is a serious financial decision. Always do your research, consult with professionals, and don't try to barter your way into a mortgage with a bag of slightly stale marshmallows. Good luck, flat-hunting adventurers!